Leaves - Alternate, petiolate, tomentose when new but quickly glabrate. Petioles pilose, to +1.5cm long, frequently with a pair of linear stipules at the base. Stipules to 2mm long. Petioles with an adaxial groove. Blades ovate-lanceolate, crenate to crenate-serrate, green above, lighter below, with a few reddish glands on the midrib adaxially, to +6cm long, +3cm broad, blunt to acute at the apex.

Habitat - Lowland and upland woods and thickets of the Crowley Ridge. Also cultivated.

Origin - Native to U.S.

Other info. - This showy species is rare in Missouri and can be found wild in just one county from the bootheel of the state. It is much more common in cultivation and wild in states to the south and east. The plant can be identified by its ovate-lanceolate leaves, glabrous pedicels and hypanthia, whitish-pink flowers, and small fruits.
The fruits of M. angustifolia are eaten by wildlife. Humans use the fruit to make jelly, preserves, and cider. The wood of the plant is hard and tough and is good for making tool handles and small items.